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If you want professionally manicured landscaping, crystal clear pools, amenities galore, and parking next to new and beautiful campers, an RV resort may be for you.
However, this style isn’t for everyone, and we think there’s a handful of things you should know before booking a site. Let’s take a look to see if you should avoid RV resorts or not.
First, What Designates an “RV Resort?”
There’s no specific definition of what makes a campground or park an “RV resort.” While this is often a term used to reference luxurious parks and campgrounds, it varies. A location may add the title “RV resort” onto its name to attract business. You could be in for a disappointing stay if you find yourself at one of these “resorts.”
Make sure you do some research before booking a site at an RV resort. You may forfeit a deposit or your entire reservation fee if you try to cancel after booking. Ensure you read reviews from other guests and not just trust the campground’s pictures on their website or list of amenities.
5 Things You Should Know About RV Resorts
Before you book your next stay at an RV resort, there are a few things you should know. Let’s take a look.
1. RV Resorts Are Often Expensive
You likely won’t save money if you opt for an RV resort. While resorts can offer a generous amount of amenities and activities, it usually comes at a high price.
You can expect to spend $40 to $100 or more per night, depending on where and when you book. While choosing to stay for an extended time may be expensive, you may enjoy the luxuries it provides.
Pro Tip: If amenities and luxuries are what you’re looking for, check out these 5 RV resorts with personal hot tubs!
2. Many Stick to the “RV 10 Year Rule”
Many RV resorts cater to certain clients. This clientele typically includes more upper-class campers. Many locations utilize the ten-year rule to maintain an atmosphere of luxury within the campground. This means your RV must not be more than 10 years old. So don’t be surprised if you get questions about the age of your rig or have your stay rejected as a result.
RVs typically don’t age well, especially after the 10-year mark. By sticking to this rule, they can help ensure RVs look newer and not an eyesore in the park. It may seem unfair, but a private business has the right to set the rules for its establishment.
3. RV Resorts Are Crowded
Despite the premium prices, people still flock to these resorts. You’ll likely have less space between campsites or room to spread out. If you enjoy privacy and distance from neighbors while RVing, you may not enjoy an RV resort.
4. Some Resorts Don’t Live Up to the Name
Sometimes resorts have a lot of hype. However, not everyone has the same experience, and they may not live up to the name. A great camping experience depends on many factors, such as weather, resort maintenance, or even the mood of your fellow campers.
It’s also important to remember that “RV resort” is a pretty broad business description. There’s no standard definition for what it includes, which leaves it open for interpretation. This vague description can result in a relatively low-budget and non-luxurious RV park calling itself a resort. This can be misleading, especially if you don’t research or are unfamiliar with the establishment.
5. RV Resorts Typically Don’t Provide a “Camping” Experience
When you stay at an RV resort, you shouldn’t expect an authentic camping experience. These guests don’t usually want to rough it in the wilderness during their stay. The resort may offer some fabricated camping experiences, but it may not feel like a typical camping trip. If you want a true camping experience, you should probably stick to state parks and other campgrounds off the beaten path.
RV Parks, RV Campgrounds, and RV Resorts: What’s Your Style?
You can stay in many places while RVing, and they all have their pros and cons. The best place to visit depends on your preferred camping style. Find your style and enjoy it, whether you like parks, campgrounds, or resorts.
RV parks have fewer restrictions and amenities than resorts. However, the less luxurious, the less they cost. Both parks and resorts will likely have guests parked close together and not provide a traditional camping experience.
Keep In Mind: We reveal 5 regrets of staying at a KOA RV Park.
If you want to rough it, you may prefer an RV campground. With this camping style, you’ll likely find yourself in a wooded environment that can help provide more privacy and a little more space between sites. You’ll have fewer amenities and a more rustic experience. But if this is what you want, you’ll find it at a campground.
Is an RV Resort Right for You?
You may love some resorts and hate others. Whether or not an RV resort is right for you depends on your preferred camping style and where you stay. If you like luxury and landscaped campsites, then you may love this option for RVing. However, if you prefer to stay in a rustic environment and hope to save a buck, you might reconsider staying at a resort. Do you have a favorite place to RV?
